Two Kanwariyas Killed, One Injured in Car-Motorcycle Crash on Delhi-Dehradun Highway
Two Kanwariyas were killed and another seriously injured after a speeding car collided with their motorcycle on the Delhi-Dehradun National Highway in Uttar Pradesh early Wednesday, police said. The deceased have been identified as Gopal, 23, and Anil, 20, both residents of Shahdara, Delhi. The injured, Ganesh, is undergoing treatment at a local hospital.
The accident occurred in the Jani police station area near MIET College, when the three youths were on their way to Haridwar to collect holy Ganga water as part of the annual Kanwar Yatra. According to police, Gopal died on the spot, while Anil succumbed to injuries during treatment. Ganesh sustained serious injuries and is currently under medical care.
Police have taken the car driver into custody and seized the vehicle. Legal proceedings have been initiated in connection with the incident, officials said.
The Kanwar Yatra is an annual pilgrimage observed during the Hindu month of Shravan, where devotees, known as Kanwariyas, travel to holy sites such as Haridwar to fetch Ganga water and offer it at local Shiva temples. This year, lakhs of pilgrims are expected to undertake the journey, and authorities have made arrangements for their safety along major routes.
Sadly, the pilgrimage has often been marred by road accidents due to overcrowded roads, speeding vehicles, and lack of adequate safety measures. This latest incident highlights the urgent need for stricter traffic enforcement and better road infrastructure on highways frequented by pilgrims.
Local residents and pilgrims expressed grief over the tragedy. Some called for better lighting, speed breakers, and medical emergency facilities along the highway, especially during the yatra season. Police have urged drivers to exercise caution and adhere to speed limits, particularly on routes where pedestrian and two-wheeler movement is high.
The bodies have been sent for post-mortem, and further investigation is underway. Police are also verifying the driver's credentials and whether he was driving under the influence, although no official statement has been made in that regard.
Road accidents remain a major concern in India, with thousands of fatalities reported every year. According to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, over 1.5 lakh people died in road accidents in 2022, with two-wheelers accounting for a significant share. The latest incident serves as a grim reminder of the importance of road safety and responsible driving.
Authorities have appealed to pilgrims to travel in groups, use designated lanes, and wear helmets. They have also advised drivers of heavy vehicles to be extra cautious in areas where yatra activity is heavy.
The district administration has announced ex gratia compensation to the families of the deceased and assured full support for the treatment of the injured. Further details are awaited as the investigation progresses.
